North Kivu violence: Two suspects arrested for alleged rape of a child

In the North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ongoing armed violence continues to impact civilian populations. In the Walikale territory, specifically in the Banamitingi area of Pinga, a 10-year-old girl was allegedly raped on August 16, 2026. Local security services apprehended two armed men identified as members of the Wazalendo group in connection with the incident. The victim was transported to the Pinga General Reference Hospital for emergency care.

Separately, victims of armed conflict in North Kivu held a memorial ceremony to demand justice, reparations, and improved security. Representatives from the Collectif des victimes de l’agression rwandaise (CVAR-ONGDH) and provincial government officials honored those killed or mutilated in various attacks, including recent massacres attributed to the ADF. Survivors shared testimonies regarding the loss of family members and the lack of humanitarian assistance, calling for an end to impunity and increased government support for displaced and injured persons.